UConn Health has been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer in the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2026 Healthcare Equality Index (HEI), a national benchmarking tool that evaluates healthcare organizations on policies and practices that support equitable, inclusive care for LGBTQ+ patients, visitors and employees.

The designation reflects UConn Health’s ongoing commitment to creating a welcoming environment where every patient receives compassionate, high-quality care while feeling respected, valued and heard.

“This recognition reinforces our commitment to ensuring every person who walks through our doors feels safe, respected and receives exceptional care,” said Dr. Jeffery Hines, vice president, Office for Inclusion and Civil Rights, University of Connecticut and UConn Health. “At UConn Health, we believe quality healthcare begins with treating every patient with dignity and compassion.”

The Healthcare Equality Index is the nation’s leading assessment of healthcare facilities’ policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ inclusion. Organizations are evaluated on areas including non-discrimination policies, patient services and support, employee policies and benefits, and community engagement. Healthcare organizations earning the High Performer designation demonstrate strong implementation of inclusive policies and practices that advance equitable care.

For patients, the designation signifies more than a national recognition, it represents an environment where healthcare teams are committed to understanding each person’s unique needs and ensuring everyone has access to respectful, patient-centered care.

As Connecticut’s only public academic medical center, UConn Health continually works to improve the patient experience through education, clinical excellence and a culture of inclusion. The organization serves a diverse patient population from across the state and is dedicated to reducing barriers to care while fostering an environment where all patients, families and employees feel welcome.

The recognition also reflects the work of physicians, nurses, advanced practice providers, staff and leadership across UConn Health who strive each day to deliver care that is compassionate, equitable and responsive to the needs of every individual.

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Healthcare Equality Index evaluates more than 2,400 healthcare facilities nationwide. According to the foundation, nearly 90% of participating facilities earned either the Healthcare Equality Leader or High Performer designation in 2026.

For more information about the Healthcare Equality Index, visit the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Healthcare Equality Index website.